Scarce Swift

The Scarce Swift, known scientifically as Schoutedenapus myoptilus, is a singular representative of its genus within the Apodidae family. This avian species is characterized by its swift and agile flight, a hallmark of the swifts.

Identification Tips

To identify the Scarce Swift, one should look for the typical swift-like silhouette with streamlined bodies and long, narrow wings. The plumage details are less discernible due to the bird's rapid flight and high-altitude habits.

Habitat

The Scarce Swift is found in Afromontane regions, favoring high-altitude environments where it can be seen gracefully maneuvering through the air.

Distribution

This species has a disjunct distribution across various parts of Africa, including the Cameroon line, Albertine Rift montane forests, and extending to Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique.

Behaviour

The Scarce Swift exhibits the characteristic behavior of swifts, spending most of its life on the wing. It is adept at catching insects mid-flight and is rarely seen at rest.

Breeding

There is limited information on the breeding habits of the Scarce Swift. However, like other swifts, they may nest in high, secluded places.

Similar Species

The Scarce Swift was once thought to be closely related to Schouteden's Swift (Schoutedenapus schoutedeni). However, it has been determined that Schouteden's Swift is not a distinct species but rather a darker juvenile or sub-adult of the Scarce Swift subspecies chapini.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Scarce Swift is primarily insectivorous, capturing its prey in flight with remarkable aerial agility.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Scarce Swift as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers warranting a higher level of conservation urgency.